Let There Be Light

Illuminate your party area with strings of lights encircling an umbrella, wound around tree trunks or run along cables suspended above partygoers' heads. Candle-filled or solar lanterns, placed on tables and at patio edges, are great alternatives if your home doesn't have outdoor electrical outlets. Image courtesy of Oxford Garden

Pool Party

Planning a pool party? Guests may forget to bring necessities, like a towel, sunscreen or goggles, so have those items on hand. Keep a bucket of beverages on ice to make sure everyone stays hydrated. Image courtesy of Oxford Garden

Enjoy Your Surroundings

A Japanese garden was the inspiration for this party's Zen theme. The long wooden table provides plenty of space for comfortably serving guests, while low chairs are durable modern re-creations of a centuries-old Japanese design. Design by Jamie Durie